By Kebba AF Touray
The Gambia’s National Assembly is poised for a significant legislative session as a series of crucial motions and bills are set to be tabled. Among the highlights is the tabling of the Manpower Agreement between the Government of The Gambia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a partnership aimed at expanding manpower cooperation between the three nations.
According to the Office of the Clerk, The Gambia’s Minister of Trade, Babucarr Joof, will present the agreement for consideration and ratification on Tuesday, 17 September 2024. This motion, per Standing Order 61 (2), will be a key moment in the ongoing session.
“The Trade Minister, in line with Standing Order 61 (2), is scheduled to lay a motion for consideration and ratification of the Manpower Agreement between the Government of The Gambia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE,” unveiled the Office of the Clerk.
In addition to the manpower agreement, several important bills are expected to be introduced by the Vice President, including the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Bill 2024 and the National Population Bill 2024, both of which will have their first readings.
Furthermore, the Minister of Health will lay the Health Insurance (Amendment) Bill 2024 for its first reading, marking a significant development in the country’s healthcare system.
Other notable motions include the consideration and ratification of the Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement for diplomatic and service passport holders between The Gambia and the Republic of Indonesia. This motion will be tabled by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad.
The Foreign Minister will also present the Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement for diplomatic passport holders between The Gambia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, signaling the country’s growing diplomatic ties.
In the realm of sports, the Youth and Sports Minister will lay a motion for the ratification of the Agreement between The Gambia and the West African Football Union Zone A (WAFU) on the establishment of WAFU headquarters in The Gambia. This move is expected to solidify The Gambia’s role as a key player in regional football administration.
In addition, the Minister for Lands and Regional Government will respond to the National Assembly Select Committee’s report on its oversight visit to Regional Governors, Area and Municipal Councils, the Ombudsman, and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), a response eagerly anticipated by lawmakers.
As the National Assembly gears up for this busy session, the tabling of these motions and bills is expected to shape the legislative and diplomatic landscape of The Gambia for the foreseeable future.
